More and more women in their late 30s and early 40s are deciding to have babies. Some put off motherhood because of career demands or so they could feel more financially secure. Some were waiting for the right partner. Some simply feel more emotionally prepared for motherhood later in life. By the time they’re ready [...]
IVF is the most common and successful of the high-tech treatments for infertility. Learn what’s involved.
In the 30 years since the first “test tube baby” was born, in vitro fertilization has shifted from the edge of science fiction into the mainstream.
IVF has allowed many couples who have been failed by other infertility treatments to become [...]
Making a baby is supposed to be fun and exciting. But for many couples it can be frustrating when months drag by with no results. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you’re 35 or older), it may be time to see an infertility doctor.
Although you may see your [...]
Deciding to get help for infertility can be a tough choice for couples to make. Infertility is a very private matter, and couples often feel shy or embarrassed about discussing it with anyone, even a doctor.
Age is the biggest factor in deciding when to seek treatment. Many people are surprised to learn that a woman’s [...]
If you’re having trouble conceiving a child, the answer may be as simple as changing your diet and exercising more. Find out how what you eat can affect fertility
Can what you eat truly help your chances of becoming pregnant? Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health say yes. And that’s welcome news to those [...]
If you suspect something is wrong, go see your doctor. It is best to go see your doctor as a couple. It is equally likely that problem will lie with the man as with the woman. Feel free to bring up any concerns or fears, no matter how long you’ve been trying to get pregnant. [...]
If any of the following apply to you, let your doctor know. Waiting 6 months or a year to try to conceive naturally may be a waste of your time.
Sexually transmitted disease, like chlamydia or gonorrhoea
Infection with the mumps virus after puberty (inflammation of testicles)
Chronic illness like diabetes, cancer, asthma, thyroid disease or depression
Undescended testicles
Testicular [...]
If any of the following apply to you, let your doctor know. Waiting 6 months or a year to try to conceive naturally may not be the best option for you as, if there does turn out to be a problem, there will then be less time available to put it right.
Endometriosis
The uterus is [...]
The more irregular your periods are, the more difficult it is to predict ovulation. The best way is for you keep track of your periods for a few months. You may find a different cycle, but as long as it’s fairly regular you can find out when you’re ovulating.
If your periods are very irregular you [...]
Ovulation prediction kits detect the surge in luteinising hormone (LH) just before ovulation. They’re easier to use and often more accurate than the BBT method and they can predict ovulation 24 to 36 hours in advance and help you maximise your chance of conception from the first month you use them.
The kits are not foolproof. [...]
